Method and assembly for increasing hair volume

ABSTRACT

Method for increasing hair volume by thickening and/or lengthening and related assembly, allowing the rapid application, even in batches, of hair extensions with connections almost invisible and perfectly incorporated, of very small dimensions and with no manual intervention required, comprising the steps of: providing one or a plurality of hair extensions having respective proximal ends provided with a respective connecting element; providing a first adhesive tape and adhering it to the hair to be thickened on an area designed to receive said proximal ends; providing a second adhesive tape, having an adhesive face, and adhering on said adhesive face the proximal ends of said hair extensions; adhering said adhesive face to hair to be thickened at said first adhesive tape; and activating connection means operating on said connecting elements of the hair extensions.

STATE OF THE ART OF THE INVENTION

1. Scope of the Invention

The present invention relates to a method for increasing hair volume,i.e., for thickening and/or lengthening hair, and to a relatedthickening and/or lengthening assembly for increasing hair volume, withhair extensions suitable for use in said method.

2. Description of the State of the Art

Various systems are already known for thickening hair volume and alsofor lengthening hair. These systems in general use hair extensions orlocks, having a natural or artificial origin, which are then fixed tothe hair using methods that, based on the proposed application methods,determine the acceptance and satisfaction on the part of the user whohas requested such treatment.

Another aspect that helps to increase the satisfaction with this kind oftreatment is the speed of implementation.

The known systems include a step wherein the hair extensions areconnected to the receiving hair of the user. During this step, the hairextensions can basically be sewn, bonded or knotted to the user's hairbut, following these systems, the thickening or the lengthening requiresa period of time too long to be carried out, considering that eachsingle hair extension requires a manual and precise operation.

Other methods are known for creating a connection between hairextensions and the receiving hair, requiring the use of externalelements such as clasps, combs, grips, etc. These elements can be usedto attach hair extensions even of large dimensions to the receiving hairof the user, but they have the great inconvenience that the connectionis clearly visible and can be felt by the user, who receives anuneasiness feeling from them.

Amongst other known means, there are those that permit size-reducedextensions to be connected to receiving hair. This methods, that requirethe use of adhesives, small clasping elements, etc., give fairly goodresults, but in all cases long application sessions are required sincethe operator must connect each individual hair extension, which cannotbe of larger size as otherwise the connection would be visible to theuser and to the observers.

Similar difficulties are present with those methods where an adhesive isused, applied to the connection in the method implementation, forexample as in the method described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,934,387 (Megna),which is particularly burdensome in terms of time, since the adhesive isdispensed in a liquid and hot state at the end of each hair extension tobe fixed. Besides, the operator should manipulate a hot glue with thefingers, with an understandable discomfort.

Also U.S. Pat. No. 5,107,867 (Barrington) describes such a kind ofmethod, in which the adhesive is provided on the application site in apredetermined quantity from a gun-shaped dispenser or other applicator.However, in Barrington, the adhesive is confined within a heatshrinkable tubing, allowing setting without its sticking to the otherhair.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,982,748 (Trimarchi) proposes the use of a thermocurableadhesive, which accordingly requires a heating after a cold application.

However, these examples of application with adhesives require thecomplex manipulation of several elements: supplemental hair, adhesive,tubing, gun, entailing also an increase in time.

In addition, the cured adhesive forms a sort of ball or skirt which isdistinctly noticeable at the touch, decreasing the easiness degree ofthe method, and which can also be observed, thwarting the desiredaesthetical improvement deriving from the thickening.

Another example of this method, which has gained a hold for thethickening and/or the lengthening extension to extension, is describedin JP 03152205 (Aderans Co. Ltd.) and in other subsequent patentsreferred to improvements of this technique, e.g. the improvementdeveloped by the inventor of the present invention, disclosed in SouthAfrican Patent ZA 93/5214 or in German Patent DE 196 26 107 C.

These documents describe a thickening element and the related method ofapplication wherin a hair extension is fixed to the hair with theapplication of a thermoplastic adhesive. In this context, it is clearthat the application is manual and that therefore it may not be uniformfrom extension to extension.

The forcedly manual implementation of these known methods thereforeimplies a series of drawbacks. First, the operator must have a greatexperience and practice in this technique, to be able of implementingproperly made connections, a condition that obviously is not alwayspossible. In addition, apart from experience, it will be extremelydifficult to produce uniform connections: they will vary greatly as theywill not be positioned exactly along the lines proposed for the hairthickening, and they will vary in quality and size.

All this means that the quality of the finished work will not beoptimal, will be more exposed to wear, with imperfections that cannot berectified, increased costs due to very long application times and thedifficulty in locating experienced operators.

In addition, again the cured adhesive forms a sort of ball or skirtwhich is distinctly noticeable at the touch, decreasing the easinessdegree of the method, and which can also be observed, thwarting thedesired aesthetical improvement deriving from the thickening.

A further improvement was described in International application WO02/098250 in the name of the present Applicant and designating the sameinventor of the present invention.

In this document, a method and an assembly of hair extensions isdisclosed for increasing hair volume, by means of the application of aset of extensions in one step, exploiting an adhesive tape to arrangethe connecting elements in the right position and then activating themsimultaneously.

This system, though allowing to greatly speed up the application of hairextensions, does not solve the problem of the imperfect connectionsresulting of unsatisfactory dimensions and that can also be seen.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The technical problem underlying the present invention is to provide amethod for increasing hair volume, as well as a related assembly, withhair extensions suitable to be used in said method, which allow toobviate to the drawbacks mentioned in connection with the state of theart.

The solution idea consists of providing a method and an assembly forthickening and/or lengthening hair with basically no manual operationrequired and allowing the application of hair extensions in sets,carrying out a perfect integration between the connecting elementssupporting the hair extensions and the user's receiving hair. Accordingto this idea, it is proposed to confine the connecting elements, duringtheir activation, in a most restricted space, not allowing in particularto the connecting element to incorporate a high number of hairs, toexpand and thus to become visible. In addition, it is desired that thisidea be suitably, but not exclusively, applied to the system ofthickening and/or lengthening with application of hair extensions insets. According to an aspect of the present invention, such a problem issolved by a method as above specified, comprising the steps of:

-   -   providing one or a plurality of hair extensions having        respective proximal ends provided with a respective connecting        element;    -   providing a first adhesive tape and adhering it to hair to be        thickened on an area intended to receive said proximal ends;    -   providing a second adhesive tape, having an adhesive face, and        adhering on said adhesive face the proximal ends of said hair        extensions;    -   adhering said adhesive face to the hair to be thickened at said        first adhesive tape; and    -   activating connection means operating on said connecting        elements of the hair extensions.

According to the same inventive concept, said technical problem issolved by an assembly as above specified, which comprises:

-   -   one or a plurality of hair extensions comprising respective        proximal ends provided with a respective connecting element;    -   a first adhesive tape apt to be reversibly applied on the hair        to be thickened; and    -   a second adhesive tape, with an adhesive face apt to receive        said connecting elements.

In accordance with the same inventive concept underlying the precedingdefinition, the technical problem at issue is also solved by a method asabove specified, comprising the steps of:

-   -   providing one or a plurality of hair extensions comprising        respective proximal ends having a respective connecting element;    -   providing an adhesive tape and arranging, according to a        predetermined arrangement, said proximal ends onto the adhesive        face of a section of said adhesive tape so that the remainder of        the adhesive tape may be folded on said section;    -   enclosing a portion of hair to be thickened between said section        and said remainder of folded adhesive tape, determining an area        intended to receive said proximal ends; and    -   activating connection means operating on said connecting        elements of the hair extensions.

According to the same inventive aspect expressed by this definition ofthe method, said technical problem is resolved by an assembly asspecified above, which comprises:

-   -   one or a plurality of hair extensions having respective proximal        ends provided with a respective connecting element; and    -   an adhesive tape having a section with an adhesive face onto        which there are arranged said proximal ends according to a        predetermined arrangement, said adhesive tape comprising a        remainder apt to be folded on said section that in turn is apt        to be reversibly applied to a receiving hair.

It will be understood that in the above defined methods and assemblies,the basic concept of confining the connecting element or elementsbetween two faces impenetrable and compressed the one against the otheris present, thus preventing the compressed connecting element fromexpanding.

This peculiarity allows to save a quantity of glue for the connectingelement that will be of smaller dimensions, i.e., those strictlynecessary to make the connection between the receiving hair and the hairextensions.

Using a plurality of extensions in a set on each adhesive tape in onestep, it is allowed the fast application of a high number of extensionsin one step, simultaneously carrying out a corresponding number ofconnections with very small dimensions and therefore almost invisibleand not detectable by the user.

The present invention will hereinafter be disclosed according to severalembodiments thereof, given by way of non-limiting examples and withreference to the annexed drawings.

In the following disclosure, there will be described embodiments with aplurality of hair extensions to be fixed in one step, however a manskilled in this technical field could effortlessly adapt the teachingsin said examples for the application of a single hair extension or of areduced number of them, according to the same inventive concept.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view illustrating an assembling phase of afirst embodiment of an assembly for increasing hair volume according tothe invention;

FIGS. 2 and 3 show perspective views of the assembly of FIG. 1, from oneside and from another side, respectively;

FIGS. 4 and 5 show perspective and partially sectional views of agripper applicator for the application of hair in extension, suitable inparticular for the method for increasing hair volume according to thepresent invention, and of a respective support base;

FIGS. 6 to 8 schematically illustrate, using perspective views, variousphases of a method according to the present invention, carried out withsaid first embodiment of the assembly of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 9 to 11 show a cross section of a detail of the applicator of FIG.4 during of a phase of the method according to the invention with theassembly of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 12 and 13 show an enlarged longitudinal section of a detail of theapplicator of FIG. 4 during of a phase of the method according to theinvention, with the assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 14 shows a partially exploded perspective view of an assemblyaccording to said first embodiment with an application device in anapplication kit;

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of the kit of FIG. 14, completelyassembled;

FIG. 16 shows a section of a detail of the kit of the preceding figure;

FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of the kit of FIG. 14 in a differentconfiguration;

FIG. 18 schematically illustrates, using a perspective view, a phase ofapplication of hair extensions using the kit of FIG. 14;

FIG. 19 shows a perspective view illustrating a phase of assembling asecond embodiment of an assembly for increasing hair volume according tothe invention;

FIGS. 20 and 21 show, using perspective views, a detail of the assemblyof FIG. 19 with a gradually increasing enlargement;

FIGS. 22 and 23 show perspective views of the assembly of FIG. 19, fromone side and from another side, respectively;

FIGS. 24, 25 and 26 schematically illustrate, using perspective views,with a gradually increasing magnification on a specific detail, phasesof application of hair extensions with the assembly of FIG. 19;

FIG. 27 shows a perspective view illustrating a phase of assembling athird embodiment of an assembly for increasing hair volume according tothe invention;

FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of a detail of the assembly of FIG. 27;

FIG. 29 shows a perspective view of a modification applicable to theassembly of FIG. 27 and also to the assemblies of FIGS. 1 and 19;

FIGS. 30 to 32 schematically illustrate, using perspective views,various phases of a method according to the present invention, carriedout with said first embodiment of the assembly of FIG. 27;

FIGS. 33 to 37 show, using perspective views, a modified implementationof the detail of FIG. 28;

FIGS. 38 to 40 show, using perspective views, three further distinctmodified implementations of the detail of FIG. 28; and

FIGS. 41 to 44 show, using perspective views, the assembling of anotherfurther modification of the detail of FIG. 28.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

With reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 it is disclosed an assembly forincreasing hair volume, generally indicated by 1, which in generalcomprises hair extensions.

It comprises an adhesive tape 2, which is, preferably but notexclusively, substantially transparent, being intended to be applied tothe hair to be thickened and/or lengthened in the method for increasinghair volume according to the invention.

The transparency allows to follow more clearly the application phasesand the effect attained even with the tape 2 applied to the hair, as itwill be made apparent below.

The material forming the adhesive tape 2 is suitably, but notexclusively, heat resistant for the reason that will be detailed below.The adhesive used on the tape 2 is a non-permanent, pressure operatedand reversible type, and it is placed on a single adhesive face of thetape 2.

The adhesive tape 2 has a first section 3, comprising a respective firstadhesive face 43, and a remainder 4 of adhesive tape 2 that can befolded on the section 3 completely covering it (FIGS. 2 and 3).Advantageously, in the present embodiment, also said remainder 4 has arespective second adhesive face 44, joined to the aforesaid face.

The section 3 and the remainder 4 are separated by a simple creasing orfold line 5.

Always with reference to FIG. 1, it is disclosed a plurality 6 of hairextensions C, briefly mentioned as extensions, comprising a quantity ofsubstantially predefined hairs which can be natural or artificial, withappropriately selected colors, uniform or streaked. These extensions arebasically additional extensions of supplemental hairs that can beconnected to the hair for thickening and/or lengthening it.

The assembly 1 according to the invention can comprise extensions C ofdifferent thickness, length and color. In general, they extend fromrespective proximal ends 7, intended to be connected to the hair, tofree distal ends 8. In each extension C, the respective hairs have alength that is preferably uniform.

At said proximal ends 7, each hair extension C comprises a connectingelement 9 produced, according to the present embodiment, from athermoplastic material such as polyamide, polyester or even apolyurethane, for example, nylon. Further modifications will bedescribed below.

Each proximal end 7 and each connecting element 9 is placed on saidfirst adhesive face 43 of the section 3 of adhesive tape 2. Theconnecting elements 9 are substantially equidistant and placed at thecenter of the tape 4. The extensions C are aligned in parallel to eachother, so that the hairs of adjacent extensions C do not get knotted toeach other.

The remainder 4 of adhesive tape 2 has means for indicating the positionof the connecting elements, which, in the present embodiment, comprisesa printed line 49. By folding the remainder 4 onto the section 3, saidline 49 is positioned onto the connecting elements 9.

At the opposite with respect to the remainder 4, the adhesive tape 2comprises a flap 45, the latter being also adhesive, apt to be connectedto the remainder 4 folded onto the section 3, substantially in abillfold configuration.

In a folded configuration, the assembly 1 further comprises a pair ofrecesses 46 obtained onto the tape 2 at the side edges, or onto thecreasings connecting the remainder 4 and the flap 45 to the section 3.

Said recesses 46 are positioned at said means for indicating theconnecting elements 9 and operate as guides for the connection meansthat will be described below.

With reference to FIG. 1, the assembly 1 comprises also an optionalsupport tape S, made of a material easily detachable from the adhesivetape 2, like, for example, silicone-coated, linenized paper or plastic,arranged to protect the adhesive faces 43, 44 and the connectingelements 9, so as to prevent the adhesive tape 2 from folding, curlingand sticking.

The adhesive material used on said adhesive faces 43, 44 has an adhesiveforce on the tape 2 greater than that produced on the material of theconnecting element 9, so that, on the latter, no adhesive materialresidues remain at the end of the application. In this preparationtechnique, it is proposed that the tape 2 be provided with the proximalends 7 of the hair extensions C already adhered to the adhesive face 43of the respective section 3, but it is also possible a solution in whichthe extensions are provided separately with a variety of thicknesses,lengths, colors, etc.

To connect the connecting element 9 to the respective end 7 various,systems can be used, among which hot gluing, injection, etc.

The preferred form of the connecting element is that of a smallrectangle, with width and thickness (magnified in the drawings)substantially equal to those of the respective extension 6, to limit tothe minimum the quantity of thermoplastic material that, as describedbelow, operates as the adhesive.

In all cases, the size of the connecting element 9 can be the mostreduced possible according to the number of supplemental hairs.

Therefore, it is proposed that said connecting element 9 could havedifferent sizes, usually discernible among large, for thick extensionsof elevated length and thickness; medium, for extensions of intermediatelength and thickness; and small, for extensions characterized by theirminimal thickness, suitable for applications thick with extensions.

Again with reference to the present embodiment, the thermoplasticmaterial is a substance suitable for being melted at a temperaturehigher than the room temperature, assuming the properties of a plasticfluid, and then cooling and solidifying at room temperature.

Substances with similar properties can be melted using the directapplication of mechanical energy, in the form of high frequencyvibrations, in particular, ultrasonic vibrations (20 to 60 kHz). In thiscase, the intermolecular vibrations and the resulting friction generatethe quantity of heat necessary to plastically move the molecules withrespect to each other. The generation of heat stops when the vibrationscease, resulting in an almost immediate solidification.

Examples of substances that can be used as a thermoplastic material arepolyesters, polyamides, polyurethanes, etc.

The function of the connecting element according to the presentinvention is that of holding together the hairs of each extension 6 andthat of providing the attachment point of the extension C to thereceiving hair of the hair being increased in volume. Other examples ofconnecting elements are thermoplastic elements, in the form of disk orball, to which the hair of the extension are fixed. These connectingelements are associated with connection means, for example, made ofportions of a thermoplastic substance as already described, or gluesand/or adhesives of another nature: pressure hardening, thermocurable,heat shrinkable, etc. Some examples of connecting elements are describedin the form of the International application Publ. Nr. WO 02/098250, tothe present Applicant and designating the same Inventor of the presentinvention.

The connecting element 9, which can have a color compatible with that ofthe hair of the extensions 6, can also be embellished with additionaldecorative elements such as artificial gems, etc.

All the connecting elements and their variations described above aresuitable for the method for increasing hair volume described below.

With reference instead to FIG. 4, there is described a hair extensionapplicator, generally indicated by 10, apt to be employed in the presentmethod of application of extensions and of thickening.

In general, it is structured like a gripper and comprises:

-   -   a fixed contrasting element on which there are formed blocking        means for a tape; and    -   a movable pressure element acting on said fixed element, the        movable pressure element being driven by a pneumatic device        operating at a predetermined pressure in order to avoid an        excessive or a too soft compressing of the connecting element.

In particular, this applicator 10 has a body 11, operating as handle andhousing internal devices that will be described below. To the body 11, afixed contrasting element 12 is secured, comprising a bearing plane 13.

It is noted that the bearing plane 13 is substantially perpendicular tothe development of the body 11.

The applicator 10 further comprises a movable pressure element 15 actingon said fixed element 12. It has a pressing plane 16 formed on theextremity of a rod 17 extending from the body 11, the axis of the rod 17being coincident to the axis of development of the body 11. Also thepressing plane 16 is substantially perpendicular to the development ofthe body 11.

The movable pressure element 15 is driven by a pneumatic device 18operating at a predetermined pressure, housed in the body 11 andconnected to said rod 17. The pneumatic device 18 comprises a simpleeffect piston 19 containing a plunger 20 connected to the rod 17 and aspring 21 ensuring the return of the rod 17. The piston 19 is fedcompressed air by a control unit 22 via a duct 23. The control unit 22is provided with an adjustment system of said predetermined pressure.

The movable pressure element 15, at its pressing plane 16, is heated toactivate the adhesion of the connecting elements 9, advantageouslyimplemented in a thermoplastic material. For this purpose, in themovable pressure element 15 there is housed a thermistor 24 power fed bythe control unit 22 via wires 25 at a predetermined voltage from whichthe temperature depends. Said control unit further comprises a timerthat, in response to an actuating button 26 located on the body 11,determines the execution of a compression-heating-decompression cycleimplementing the connection between the hair extensions C and the hair T(FIG. 6). Therefore, once the temperature, the pressure and thecompression time have been set, the mere actuation of the button 26determines the execution of the above cycle, i.e., the completeconnection of a group of hair extensions C, as it will be made apparentbelow.

Further examples of applicators suitable for use in the present methodare described in WO 02/098250 and WO 03/06416, both to the presentApplicant and designating the same Inventor of the present invention.

With reference to FIG. 5, the applicator 10 can be mounted in a suitableapparatus, indicated by 30, comprising an extensible and pivotable armonto which there is suspended a support cable 32 supporting theapplicator 10. The cable was connected to a counterweight system thatvirtually eliminates, for the operator, the weight of the applicator 10.

Advantageously, the apparatus 30 comprises a base 33 that supports saidcontrol unit 22 and is mounted on wheels 34, so as to position it allfacing the user's armchair. With reference to the assembly 1 describedabove, a method for increasing hair volume comprises the followingapplication steps, described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8.

According to said method, and in accordance with the above, there isprovided a plurality of hair extensions C having the respective proximalends 7 provided with a respective connecting element 9 adhered, asspecified, on the adhesive face 43 of the section 3 of said adhesivetape 2 so that the remainder 4 of the adhesive tape 2 may be folded onsaid section 3.

The method proposes a step wherein a portion P of the hair T to bethickened is prepared by a combing, to align all hair in parallel toeach other.

Subsequently, said method comprises an additional step wherein a portionof hair T to be thickened is enclosed between said section 3 and saidremainder 4 of folded adhesive tape 2, determining an area intended toreceive said proximal ends 7.

Conveniently, the remainder of tape is externally adhered to the hair,that is with its adhesive face 44 facing the head and the externalnon-adhesive face.

Therefore, the section 3 is adhered below said hair portion, with therespective adhesive face 43 positioning the connecting elements 9 of theextensions below the hair portion, and therefore hidden.

The adhesion of the section 3 can precede the adhesion of the remainder,and in this phase it is necessary to keep aligned the hairs of theportion P by combing.

Thus, the assembly 1 is closed with a billfold configuration. It shouldbe noted that, in this phase, the top edge of the adhesive tape 2, incorrespondence with the connecting elements and not crossed by theextensions C, may be rested on the cutis, thereby uniformly spacing theconnecting elements 9 from the cutis itself.

In addition, the portion of adhesive tape 2 crossed by the extensions Cwinds up the portion of hair T to be thickened, holding it in a fixedposition and preserving the direction given by said combing.

By virtue of the adhesion of the flap 45, the perfect overlapping of thesection 3 and of the remainder 4 is ensured. The connecting elements 9remain hidden by the hair portion P, but their position can bedetermined by virtue of the printed line 49.

Subsequently, the fixed element 12 of the applicator 10 is rested takingthe recesses 46 as reference. Then, the movable element 15 can easily beoriented toward the remainder 4 taking said printed line 49 asreference.

In this phase, connection means essentially consisting of said strip 1and of the connecting elements 9 are activated by the operator.

In the present embodiment, the melting property of thermoplasticmaterial is used. In fact, it is proposed that energy be applied to theconnecting elements 9 via the adhesive tape 1. With reference to FIG. 5,the gripper applicator 10 is used wherein the fixed element 12 and themovable element 15 have an elongated shape and can compress, applying asubstantially uniform pressure, the entire tape 2 along its length,thereby compressing the connecting element 9.

In this context, an alternative system for transmitting energy to theconnecting element 9 can be used as well.

This system proposes the use of mechanical energy in the form ofultrasonic frequency vibrations, for example in the range from 20 to 60kHz. In this case, one or both of the pressure elements will beconnected to a vibrating body, for example a piezo-electric elementsubjected to alternating current at the desired frequency and they willtransmit these vibrations to the connecting element 9, both directly andthrough the tape 1.

In this case, note that the application of vibrations allows themolecules of the connecting element 9 thermoplastic material to floweasily between the individual hairs of the extension 6 and the hair T,penetrating and joining them together.

Further modifications of the connecting element 9, applicable to all theembodiments of the assembly according to the invention, will bedescribed below.

The first modification implies that the connecting element be made of aparticular hot-melt resin called reactive hot-melt glue. This type ofglue is known in the art and it has the feature of hardening in thepresence of moisture.

In particular, the hardening of this glue could be fostered by airmoisture or even by residual moisture in the receiving hair, derivingfor example from a shampoo prior to the application of the extensions.

It will be appreciated that the presence of moisture in hair is usuallyseen as a hindrance to the application of adhesives on hair, but not inthis case.

Another modification involves the use of a two-pack adhesive with bothcomponents being hot-melt. Said components could be incorporated in thesame connecting element or arranged facing opposite adhesive faces ofthe tape 2. Alternatively, one of the components could be sprayed in theform of powder on the hair prior to the application of the connectingelements 9, in this case realized with the other component. The excesspowder would be brushed away after application of the extensions C.

Turning to the present embodiment, the applicator 10 is actuated via thebutton 26, and a constant pressure, not subordinate to the thickness ofwhat is comprised between the elements 12, 15 operating like a gripper,is exerted for a time interval of predetermined length, uniformly alongthe remainder 4, or equally on each connecting element 9 that istransformed in a connection on the hair.

It is proposed that this application, according to the same modes, couldbe repeated an infinite number of times always with identical resultsand without requiring the operator to exert any muscle force.

Conveniently, it is possible to apply plural adhesive tapes 2, to thenactivate said connection means in a rapid sequence.

It is proposed that operation parameters like: exerted pressure,pressure duration, heating (temperature), heating duration, vibrationfrequency, vibration intensity, duration of vibrations, could be presetand stored in the control unit, and could be varied according to thespecifications of the extensions and of the connecting elements to beapplied.

Once this connection step is complete, it suffices, at the end of thecooling, to remove adhesive tape 2 without leaving any glue on the hairs(FIG. 8), to complete the application.

In order to better highlight the peculiarities of the method, the stepof activation of the connection means will be detailed with reference toFIGS. 9 to 13.

The fixed element 12 is manipulated so as to be facing below the section3, whereas the remainder 4 is adhered to the support plane 13 (FIG. 9).

The applicator 10 is actuated for the compression-heating cycle. Thecombined heat and pressure, crossing the tape 2 void of connectingelements 9, melts the thermoplastic material that penetrates between thehairs of the hair T and of the extension C (FIG. 10).

More specifically, (FIG. 12), placing the movable element 15 at saidmeans for indicating the position of the connecting elements 9,automatically said movable element 15 is placed in a correct position.

The compression and the heating melts the thermoplastic material fromthe side facing said remainder 4, through the hair T entrapped betweenthe movable 15 and fixed 12 elements.

Thus, the thermoplastic material tends to migrate through the hair T andanyhow its position is confined on both sides by the tape 2 (FIG. 13)with the pressure uniformly conveyed by the operator, through the tapeportions and the entrapped mass of hair.

This process prevents the thermoplastic material from being compressedon the face of one of the tapes, and it is prevented the formation ofplane and shiny faces of solidified thermoplastic material, faces thatotherwise would be visible (FIG. 13).

Once the pressure and the heating are discontinued, the thermoplasticmaterial solidifies remaining confined between the tape 2 (FIG. 11).After a reasonable yet very short cooling the tape 2 can be removed, butit is also possible to remove all tapes once the application of pluralassembly 1 has taken place.

However, it is proposed that the dimensions of the connecting elementand of the thermoplastic material portion may be reduced at will,without substantially influencing the capacity of the extensions C to beconnected to the respective hair.

From the description, it is proposed that this method of hair extensiondoes not require any manipulation on the part of the operator andenables the formation of extension-receiving hair connections with verysmall dimensions, considering that the pressure elements, with thepresence of two tapes, contain the material that enables the connectionto occur. The resulting connections are very subtle, with finishededges, void of shiny faces, almost imperceptible. The only manualintervention is based on manipulating the device that is used toactivate the connection.

The dimensions of the connection are not subordinate to the fact thatthe thermoplastic material and the hair of the extension must forciblysurround the hair of the hair, creating a connection point whose volumecannot be reduced below a certain limit. For example, in the above citedJP 03152205 (Aderans Co. Ltd.), the simple fact that the hair of theextension must be wound around the hair of the creates in itself avoluminous connection.

According to the present invention, the dimensions of the connectionpoint depend exclusively on the quantity of hair compressed within theextension: the more subtle the extension, the more subtle theconnection.

The lack of manipulation therefore leads to the formation of uniformconnections. Their optimal quality prevents disconnection due to, forexample, penetration of water and the like.

With this system, it is also possible to hide the extensions within thehair. Then, because it is possible to apply extensions equidistant toeach other, additional extensions can be applied between them, with thepossibility of obtaining consistent extensions within brief periods andto create complex streaks (highlights) by mixing in extensions withcolors different to the hair of the user.

With reference to FIGS. 14 to 17 there is described the assembly 1 ofthe preceding figures, provided with a complementary tool identified asfolding element 50 that has a billfold configuration, it being providedwith a pair of rectangular flaps, in particular a first flap 51 and asecond flap 52, united by a folding line 53 or creasing. The foldingelement is implemented in a rigid or semi flexible material, e.g. aneasily molded plastic material, so that the flaps 51, 52 be apt toadhere to the tape section 3 receiving the connecting elements 9 of thehair extensions C and to the remainder 4 closing on the tape section 3.This adhesion provides support and rigidity, allowing to easilymanipulate the tape 2 with no risk of the section 3 and the remainder 4folding, adhering on inappropriate spots or anyhow assuming an incorrectconfiguration.

In order to ease the adhesion, the folding element comprises means forsecuring the tape 2 to the flaps 51, 52. Said securing means comprisesadhesive strips 54 arranged on the inner face of the flaps 51, 52, wherefor inner face there are meant the faces adapt to adhere to each otherby virtue of the folding of the folding element 50.

Said adhesive strips are arranged so as to extend from the folding line53 to the outer edge of the folding element 50. Thus, it is possible tosecure to the folding element 50 the tape 2 with the folding line 5 ofthe latter arranged just at the folding line 53 of the folding element50.

In addition, said securing means comprises retractable hooks 55 locatedat the ends of the folding line 53. The retractable hooks 55 are movablebetween an engagement position of the tape 2 to the folding element 50and a disengagement position, away from the extremity of the folding end53.

For this purpose, each retractable hook 55 is provided with a stem 56slidably located into a sleeve 57 associated to the folding line 53 onthe outer side of the folding element 50. The free end of the stem 56can be controlled simply with the tip of a finger, adjusting theposition of the retractable hook 55 (FIG. 16).

The function of each hook 55 is to entrap the tape 2 on the foldingelement, so that the folding lines 5, 53 be overlapped (FIG. 17).

Advantageously, the width of the tape 2 is equal or similar to that ofthe folding element 50, whereas the latter will have a greater length,so that the portions of the tape 2 be completely encloseable by thefolding element 50 (FIG. 17).

With the folding element (FIG. 18), the method for increasing hairvolume comprises a phase in which a portion of the hair to be thickenedT is enclosed between said section 3 and said remainder 4 of foldedadhesive tape 2, determining an area intended to receive said proximalends 7.

In this step, the folding element 50 is used to correctly drive the tape2 on the selected portion of the hair T.

Therefore, it is proposed that the folding element 50 is in this caseincorporated in the assembly 1 described above insofar as it is drivenby the folding element 50. In different phases, in particular in thediffusion of the assembly, the folding element 50 could be separatelymanaged.

With reference to FIGS. 19 to 26, there is now disclosed a secondembodiment of the assembly for increasing hair volume that can be usedin the related method without modifications in the application steps.All the portions disclosed with reference to the preceding embodimentare present and are indicated by the same reference numbers.

The section 3 of tape 2 receiving said connecting elements 9 and alsothe section intended to be folded have faces that are intended, duringthe application steps that will be described below, to come into contactwith said connecting elements 9.

These faces, identifiable in this example with the adhesive faces 43, 44but optionally confined to the contact areas of the remainder of tape 2that is folded, are covered by a thin layer of fluff, that is fibersdispersed on the adhesive face.

Various types of fibers can be used. Natural fibers will be preferred,capable of making, with the modes that will be described below, the faceof the connecting elements velvety to the touch. Of course, thepreferred color will be equal to that of the hairs of the extensions.

This layer of fluff can be made in various holding modes, e.g. ofelectrostatic type or spray. For the sake of easiness, the entireadhesive face of the tape may be interested, with the same adhesiveholding the fluff but maintaining an adhesivity such as to hold in theirposition also the connecting elements.

In the application of the assembly 1, the two portions 3, 4 of the tape2 determine the close contact of said fluff layer on both faces of theconnecting element 9.

The temporaneous controlled melting of the connecting element 9 and theexertion of a pressure on it imply that the faces of the tape 2 comeinto contact with the top and bottom faces of the connecting element 9itself, and in this phase, in which the connecting element 9 lies in asemi melted layer, it receives the layer of fluff that are partiallyburied on its face, making it soft and velvety to the touch, as well assubstantially opaque and of the same color of the hair.

This effect effectively mingles each connecting element with the hair T.Also in the case of artificial or natural light projected directly onit, the connecting elements do not reflect more light than the hair do.

It is proposed that the use of the folded tape allows to make velvetyboth the faces of the connecting elements even though in otherproduction examples the exposed top faces could be made velvety, usingtapes selectively covered with fluff.

The latter may be flocked on the adhesive face of the strip, but canalso be mixed to the adhesive or even, subsequently to the holding,covered with a further layer of adhesive to secure it more tightly tothe tape.

Taking into account the fact that the satisfaction for the applicationof hair extensions is subordinate to a substantial invisibility of theartificial origin of the thickening, it is implemented by means of alikeness between added hair and user's hair, but most of all by minglingthe connecting elements with the hair.

For this purpose, a modification of the preceding embodiment proposesthat the section 3 of tape 2 receiving said connecting elements 9 andalso the section intended to be folded have faces that are intended, inthe application steps described below, to come into contact with saidconnecting elements 9.

These faces, identifiable in this example with the adhesive faces 43, 44but optionally confined to the contact areas, are creased.

In particular, said faces have a surface roughness such as to make thetape 2 opaque rather than shiny. Such a roughness can be obtained bythree modes:

-   -   by a mechanical corrosion, implementable for example with a        sanding;    -   by a chemical corrosion, implementable for example with an acid        bath in which the tape is immersed; or    -   by an abrasion, implementable with abrasive pads rubbed on the        tape face.

In addition, said faces have a second type of creasing, of surfacedimensions greater with respect to the preceding one. Said second typeof creasing is such that the tape face comprises a plurality of ribs andgrooves of transversal dimensions similar to the diameter of anindividual hair and of orientation parallel to that of the hairs of theextensions C.

Such ribs and grooves can be newly generated on the tape face by threemodes:

-   -   by an extrusion implemented with a suitable mold;    -   by chemical etching, implementable for example with an adapt        silk-screen pad and a corrosive agent applied through the pad;        and    -   by a mechanical removal of aligned strips of tape material with        suitable abrasive means or surface etching means.

It is proposed that both these typologies of creasing can be adoptedseparately on the face of the tape 2, for giving to the connectingelement, during its activation, a opaque face (due to the surfaceroughness) or a grooved surface (due to the ribs and to the grooves)that mingles with the hair.

In addition, it is proposed that said typologies can be adoptedcontemporaneously to give to the connecting element both the aboveeffects.

The temporaneous controlled liquefaction of the connecting element 9 andthe exertion of a pressure on it implies that the faces of the tape 2come into contact with the top and bottom faces of the connectingelement 9 itself.

The creasing of the faces of the tape 2 is impressed on the opposingfaces of the connecting element 9 that thus is opaque, by effect of thesurface roughness, and streaked, by effect of the ribs and the grooves,in the sense of the hair.

These effects, advantageously combined among them, determine theeffective mingling of each connecting element with the hair T. Also inthe case of artificial or natural light directly projected on it, theconnecting elements do not reflect more light than the hair do.

These effect can be alternate to or combined with the application offluff as described above.

With reference to FIGS. 27 to 32, a third embodiment of the assembly forincreasing hair volume according to the invention and a relatedembodiment of method, anyhow analogous to that described above, that ischaracterized by the same inventive concept, will be described below.

Components analogous to those described above will be indicated by thesame reference numbers.

Said assembly, generally indicated by 1, comprises a first adhesive tape102 provided for example in the form of a roll 103. Preferably, but notexclusively, it is substantially transparent, being intended to beapplied on the hair to be thickened in the method for thickening.Therefore, the transparency enables to follow more clearly theapplication steps and the effect attained even for the applied firsttape 102.

The material forming the adhesive tape 102 is preferably, but notexclusively, heat resistant for the reason described above. In thisembodiment as well, the adhesive used is a non-permanent, pressureoperated and reversible type, and it is placed on a single adhesive faceof the first tape 102.

The assembly 1 comprises a second adhesive tape 104, in the presentembodiment substantially analogous to the previous one. It is preferablytransparent, in a material resistant to heat as the preceding one, andhas an adhesive face 105.

Always with reference to FIG. 1, it is described a plurality 6 of hairextensions C, comprising a quantity of substantially predefined hairswhich can be natural or artificial, with appropriately selected colors,uniform or streaked.

Also this assembly 1 can comprise extensions C of different thickness,length and color. In general they extend from respective proximal ends7, intended to be connected to the hair, to free distal ends 8. In eachextension C, the respective hairs have a length that is preferablyuniform.

At said proximal ends 7, each extension C comprises a connecting element9 produced, according to the present embodiment, in a thermoplasticmaterial, such as polyamide or polyester or even a polyurethane, forexample, nylon. This element is in all analogous to those describedabove, optional modifications included.

Each proximal end 7 and each connecting element 9 is arranged on saidadhesive face 105 of the second adhesive tape 104. The connectingelements 9 are substantially equidistant and placed at the center of thetape 104. The extensions C are aligned in parallel to each other, sothat the hair of adjacent extensions C do not get knotted to each other.

With reference to FIG. 27, the assembly 1 optionally comprises also asupport tape S, made of a material easily detachable from the adhesivetape 1, like for example silicone-coated paper or plastic arranged toprotect the adhesive face 104 and the connecting elements 9, so as toprevent the second tape from folding, curling and sticking.

The adhesive material used on said adhesive face 105 has an adhesiveforce on the second tape 104 greater than that produced on the materialof the connecting element 9, so that on the latter no adhesive materialresidues remain at the end of the application.

Optionally, the second adhesive tape 104 could have an undefined lengthand the operator could cut sections to select the desired number ofextensions 6. The same can be said for the first adhesive tape 102,which, as it will be made apparent below, could be cut in sectionssubstantially of equal length of the corresponding sections of secondtape 104.

In this preparation technique, it is proposed that the second tape 4 beprovided with the proximal ends 7 of the extensions C already adhered tothe respective adhesive face 105, but it is also possible a solution inwhich the extensions are provided separately with a variety ofthicknesses, lengths, colors, etc.

In this case, extensions could be selected immediately and placed on thesecond tape 104 optionally resorting to positioning means, which cancomprise: marks or recesses obtained on the tape 104 or a stencil to bearranged to support the transparent tape 104 to place the extensions ina guided manner. There could be provided marks and traces of sizecompatible to that of the connecting elements 9, in turn sized dependingon the thickness and the width of the extension. These marks or tracescould also suggest the positioning density, that is the pitch separatingadjacent extensions.

These modifications will be detailed below. With reference to FIG. 29,it is proposed an example of arrangement of extensions C′ of very smallthickness, called mini-extensions, which can be grouped in place of anindividual hair extension C.

With reference to the thickening kit 1 described above, a method forthickening hair comprises the following application phases, describedwith reference to FIGS. 30 to 32.

According to said method and in accordance to what is described above,there is provided a plurality of extensions C having the respectiveproximal ends 7 provided with a respective connecting element 9 adhered,as specified, to the adhesive face of said second adhesive tape 104.

Instead, said first adhesive tape 102 is adhered to the hair to bethickened T, on an area designed to receive said proximal ends 7.

The first tape 102 applied to the outside of the hair, that is with theadhesive face facing the head and the non-adhesive face external. (FIG.30). This operation can occur thus for simplicity's sake. However, it isproposed that the first tape 102 could be inserted in the hair T toadhere to said area from inside the hair, with the adhesive face of thefirst tape 102 facing the outside, that is oppositely with respect tothe head.

Subsequently, the second tape 104 is mounted on the fixed element 12 ofthe applicator 10 or directly on the hair T as long as it is at saidfirst tape 102. By virtue of the transparency of the tapes 102, 104 itwill be possible, prior to the connection, to check the effect producedon the hair T to be thickened. The user can also check the effect bymeans of a mirror.

Subsequently, once the position of the tapes 102, 104 and therefore alsoof the extensions 6 as well as the adequateness of the selections interms of length, shape, thickness and color has been decided on, thenext step occurs in which the connecting elements 9 are connected to thehair of the user. In this phase, connection means essentially consistingof said tape 102 and of the connecting elements 9 are activated by theoperator.

In the present embodiment, the melting property of the thermoplasticmaterial is used. In fact, it is proposed that energy be applied to theconnecting elements 9 via the adhesive tape 102. With reference to FIG.4, the gripper applicator 10 is used in which the fixed element 12 andthe movable element 15 have an elongated shape and can compress,applying a substantially uniform pressure, the tapes 102, 104 facedalong its length, thereby compressing the connecting element 9.

It is proposed that this application, according to the same modes, couldbe repeated an infinite number of times always with identical resultsand without requiring the operator to exert any muscle force.

It is proposed that operation parameters like: exerted pressure,pressure duration, heating (temperature), heating duration, vibrationfrequency, vibration intensity, duration of vibrations, could be presetand stored in the control unit, and could be varied according to thespecifications of the extensions and of the connecting elements to beapplied.

Once this connection step is complete, it suffices, at the end of thecooling, to remove both tapes 102, 104 without leaving any glue on thehair (FIG. 32), to complete the operation.

Said second adhesive tape 104, supporting the proximal ends 7 of thehair extensions C, can be replaced by several modifications that will bedescribed with reference to FIGS. 33 to 44.

Said first support tape, indicated in this modification by 204, haspreferential tearing lines 208, formed in said support tape 202, such asto implement complementary portions of support tape 202, each comprisingone or more proximal ends 7 of hair extensions C.

Specifically, in the present embodiment, a preferential tearing line 208is comprised that can be implemented in several ways, in particular whenthe continuity of the support tape 204 is ensured by a support tape Snot shown here. Among said ways, an engraved dotted line, a perforatedline, a slit are mentioned.

In this example, the line 208 follows a substantially fret- orcoil-shaped path so that the complementary portions of the tape 202receive the proximal ends 7 and the respective connecting elements 9 ofalternate hair extensions C.

By separating the two complementary portions a reduced assembly isobtained consisting of a semi element 209 extending longitudinally andhaving support areas 210 for connecting elements 9, joined by an edgeband 211. It is proposed that a semi element 210 comprises an edge band211 positioned through the extensions C and that the other semi element210 comprise an edge band 11 opposite to the extensions C.

FIGS. 36 and 37 illustrate a mode of employ of the aforedescribedassembly 1. A first semi element 209 a, supporting a number ofextensions C characterized by a first color, is coupled to acomplementary second semi element 209 b, supporting an equal number ofextensions C characterized by a second color.

The overlapping of the two semi elements leads to the formation of anassembly 1, as described with regard to said third embodiment, in whichextensions C of different color are alternated. The flexibility of useentailed by this assembly of extensions is easily appreciated.

Said overlapping can occur by juxtaposing the edges of the two semielements 209 a, 209 b or by overlapping an edge of said edges, to makeuse of the adhesion of the respective adhesive face 205 to recreate anassembly with a structurally united tape.

In order to facilitate the separation of the extensions, thepreferential tearing line 8 has a slit at the loops facing theextensions C and connecting sections at the loops facing oppositely tothe extensions C. Thus, it is easier to separate the semi elements 209in the portion facing the extensions, facilitating the disentangling ofthe latter. With reference to FIG. 38, another modification comprises aplurality of preferential tearing or mere separation lines 281 (totallyequivalent in the presence of a support tape S) crossing edge-to-edgethe second tape 204 separating each an individual connecting element 9.Each preferential tearing line 281 comprises a reference indent 282 tofacilitate the assembling of the individual portions.

With reference to FIG. 39, a further modification proposes preferentialtearing lines 281 in all analogous to those of the precedingmodification. The tape 204 further comprises, for each portion, a visualposition reference 284, that is a small dot of another mark printed onthe tape 204. This reference replaces said reference indent 282 in itsfunctions.

With reference to FIG. 40, a further modification proposes a discretenumber of connecting elements 9, that is of extensions C, between eachpreferential tearing line 281, thereby enabling to mix the extensions Cin sets.

According to a last modification, a section of the tape 304 functioningas the aforedescribed second adhesive tape 104 in the third embodimentof the assembly 1 can be prepared as follows (FIGS. 41 to 44).

A section of adhesive tape 304 is cut by an operator and the respectiveadhesive face 305 is exposed. Said adhesive face 305, as specifiedabove, is apt to receive in adhesion said proximal ends 7, that is therespective connecting elements 9 of the hair extensions C.

For this purpose, said proximal ends 7 are adhered to said adhesive face305 in accordance with the positioning means, which, in the presentmodification, consist of position indicators 310. In this example, onthe adhesive tape 304 there are provided three rows of indicators, eachhaving indicators of different shape. In particular, a first rowcomprises position indicators 310 for large-size connecting elements 9,a second row comprises position indicators 310 for medium-sizeconnecting elements 9 and a third row comprises position indicators 310for small-size connecting elements 9.

On each row, there is proposed a density of application of theextensions C that varies according to the size of the extension C, i.e.,of the respective connecting element 9. In particular, by decreasing thesize of the connecting element the pitch between position indicators 310adjacent on the same row will be reduced.

However, it is understood that the resulting spacing is a proposal andthe operator could anyhow use one of said rows to exactly align theextensions C on the adhesive tape 304. The position indicators 310 havea shape resembling that of the respective connecting elements 9, forexample rectangle-rectangle, so that with the adhesion of the elements 9to the respective indicator 310 the substantial parallelism of theextensions C placed on the same tape 304 is attained automatically.

However, it is understood that said position indicators are anon-limiting example for providing positioning means of proximal ends 7with connecting element 9.

A further example may be represented by slits or recesses formed in thetape 304, of shape equal to that of the designed connecting element 9.Another example consists of a stencil with positioning traces that canbe located below the tape 304. The traces are visible below thetransparent tape, optionally with the aid of a back lighted plane. Inall cases, it can be observed how these preliminary phases can be easilyand rapidly carried out by an operator selecting extensions of desiredshape, length, thickness and color, with the possibility to attain themost varied effects.

The aforedescribed method in all its modifications reduces the quantityof thermoplastic material used, energy used for activation, with no lossof heat and no contamination of the instrument or the connection device.

In addition, as can be appreciated, the method for increasing hairvolume described above and the related assembly of extensions, due tothe possibility of using numerous application variations, allows theprofessional operator to make maximum use of their imagination.

With particular reference to the use of the two tapes, the followingadvantageous operative results are attained:

a) Once separated, the hairs of the user are held in a fixed position bythe tape and thus it is easier to manipulate the gripper applicatoravoiding to cross hairs and extensions to each other.

b) The hairs of the user are protected from heat by being enclosed insaid billfold shape.

c) The thermoplastic material is enclosed between two tapes or films andtherefore cannot escape confinement, better entrapping the receivinghair without involving other hairs.

d) The surface of the fused and solidified connecting element issubstantially not perceptible to the feel. The quality of thisconnection prevents water from penetrating between hairs of theconnection, which is substantially sealed by the thermoplastic material.

e) The tape, which prevents outlets of thermoplastic material, preventsgripper contamination.

f) The tape can be held adhered until the end of the cooling of thethermoplastic material, without in the meantime preventing furtherconnections, saving time.

g) The tape holds fixed the combing, which thus is more precise.

The aforedescribed method is not limited to a number of extensionsadhered to the respective tape, number that can vary from one on.

To the aforedescribed method for increasing hair volume and relatedassembly one skilled in the art, in order to satisfy further andcontingent needs, may effect several further modifications and variants,all comprised within the protective scope of the present invention, asdefined by the appended claims.

1. An assembly for increasing hair volume by thickening and/orlengthening, comprising: one or a plurality of hair extensions havingrespective proximal ends provided with respective connecting elements;and an adhesive tape having a section with an adhesive face onto whichsaid proximal ends are arranged according to a predeterminedarrangement, said adhesive tape comprising a remainder apt to be foldedon said section completely covering it, the section and the remainderbeing separated by a fold line, the adhesive face of said section beingapt to be reversibly applied on receiving hair, the remainder havingmeans for indicating the position of the connecting elements; whereinthe assembly further comprises a pair of recesses obtained either ontothe tape at side edges thereof in a folded configuration or ontocreasings connecting the remainder and a flap to the section, saidrecesses being positioned at said means for indicating the connectingelements to act as guide for a connection means.
 2. The assemblyaccording to one of the claims 1, wherein said connecting elements aremade of a thermoplastic material.
 3. The assembly according to claim 2,wherein the thermoplastic material comprises polyester and/or polyamideand/or polyurethanes.
 4. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein saidadhesive tapes are transparent.
 5. The assembly according to claim 1,wherein the adhesive faces have an adhesive of a non-permanent andreversible type, operated by pressure, with an adhesive force on therespective tape greater than that produced on the thermoplasticmaterial.
 6. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein at least theadhesive tapes are resistant to heat.
 7. The assembly according to claim1, wherein the connecting elements are substantially equidistant andplaced at the center of the respective section of adhesive tape, theextensions being aligned in parallel to each other, so that the hairs ofadjacent extensions do not get knotted to each other.
 8. The assemblyaccording to claim 1, wherein the flap is opposite with respect to theremainder, is adhesive, and is apt to be connected to the remainderfolded onto the section in substantially a billfold configuration. 9.The assembly according to claim 1, comprising a support tape, made of amaterial easily detachable from the adhesive tape, arranged to protectthe adhesive faces and the connecting elements.
 10. The assemblyaccording to claim 1, wherein the adhesive face receiving the proximalends of the hair extensions has position indicators.
 11. The assemblyaccording to claim 1, wherein the face of the adhesive tape designed tocome into contact with said connecting element is substantially creasedand/or has a marked surface roughness.
 12. The assembly according toclaim 11, wherein said faces have a surface roughness such as to makethe adhesive tape and accordingly the applied connecting element opaque.13. The assembly according to claim 12, wherein said roughness isobtained according to one of four modes: by a suitable glazing; by amechanical corrosion, implementable for example with a sanding; by achemical corrosion, implementable for example with an acid bath in whichthe tape is immersed; or by an abrasion, implementable with abrasivemeans rubbed on the tape face.
 14. The assembly according to claim 11,wherein said faces have a plurality of ribs and grooves of transversaldimensions similar to the diameter of an individual hair and oforientation parallel to that of the hairs of the hair extensions. 15.The assembly according to claim 14, wherein said ribs and grooves arenewly generated onto the tape face by one of four modes: by a suitableglazing, by an extrusion implemented with a suitable mold, by chemicaletching, implementable for example with an adapt silk-screen pad and acorrosive agent applied through the pad; and by a mechanical removal ofaligned strips of tape material with suitable abrasive means or surfaceetching means.
 16. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein said faceshave a surface roughness such as to make the adhesive tape, andaccordingly the applied connecting element, opaque and have a pluralityof ribs and grooves of transversal dimensions similar to the diameter ofan individual hair and of orientation parallel to that of the hairs ofthe hair extensions.
 17. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein theface of adhesive tape designed to come into contact with said connectingelement is substantially covered with fluff.
 18. The assembly accordingto claim 17, wherein said fluff is deposited by flocking.
 19. Theassembly according to claim 18, wherein said flocking is ofelectrostatic type.
 20. The assembly according to claim 17, wherein saidfluff is held on the tape by the respective adhesive faces.
 21. Theassembly according to claim 17, wherein said fluff is mixed to theadhesive of said adhesive faces.
 22. The assembly according to claim 1,wherein the connecting elements are made of reactive hot-melt glue thatis hardening in the presence of moisture.
 23. The assembly according toclaim 1, wherein the connecting elements are made of two-pack adhesive.24. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein there are provided aplurality of hair extensions, positioned according to a predeterminedarrangement, to allow their multiple application.